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Prehistorical Obsidian Sources in the Island of Lipari (Aeolian Islands)

Isole Eolie (Aeolian Islands) — 2020 — WHE2ECFEE63FD

Aeolian Islands' Lipari reveals critical insights into Neolithic obsidian sourcing, with implications for Mediterranean trade and community mobility. The study identifies distinct geological characteristics of Lipari's obsidian flows, providing a foundation for reconstructing prehistoric supply chains. Through fission track dating of artifacts and radiocarbon analysis of paleo soils, researchers established precise chronologies for obsidian sources, shedding light on Neolithic extraction techniques and inter-island movement patterns. This dual-method approach offers unprecedented resolution in tracing raw material diffusion across the Mediterranean, challenging assumptions about Neolithic resource management.

Preliminary data on formation and depositional environments of lake Chaika in the central part of the Curonian Spit (Kaliningrad region, Russia, South-Eastern Baltic)

Curonian Spit — 2020 — WHEFDB9A714E1

Lake Chaika, the sole major water body within the sand barriers of the South-Eastern Baltic shoreline, was formed around 500 years ago. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about its origin and provides insights into the region's environmental history. The study, conducted by Napreenko et al., employed a combination of sediment core analysis, organic matter content assessment, macrofossil examination, radiocarbon AMS-dating, and bathymetric surveys to unravel the lake's formation phases. It revealed that the lake's kettle was not submerged during the Littorina transgressions and experienced three distinct ecosystem phases: a period of alder carrs (5390–510 cal. yr BP), a 'sand disaster' phase (≈550–500 cal. yr BP), and its current lake stage (500 cal. yr BP to present). Notably, the 'sand disaster' began 200-250 years earlier in this region compared to the main Curonian Spit territory.

Preliminary Results from an Ethno-Archeological study in Sefidkuh Makran (Baluchistan)

Shahr-i Sokhta — 2020 — WHE7B6417DC8A

A new ethno-archeological study of Sefidkuh Makran (Baluchistan) reveals that the rugged south-eastern Iranian plateau—home to Bronze Age centers like Shahr-i Sokhta and Shahdad—has sustained continuous human settlement from the Neolithic onward, often with minimal cultural disruption. While neighboring regions saw rapid shifts, Makran’s harsh terrain fostered localized, resilient traditions, serving as both a crossroads for Mesopotamian, Sindh Valley, and Iranian cultural exchange and an isolated refuge preserving deep-rooted continuity. The research combines ethnographic observation with archeological survey to map these enduring patterns.

Preliminary Studies on Fungal Contamination of Two Rupestrian Churches from Matera (Southern Italy)

The Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera — 2020 — WHE6E4193C637

A study of fungal contamination in two rupestrian churches within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera, identified six dominant fungal species: Parengyodontium album, Alternaria alternata, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Lecanicillium psalliotae, Meyerozyma guilliermondii, and Botryotrichum atrogriseum. These fungi, with a 99–100% similarity to known species, pose risks to the structural integrity and aesthetic value of the churches, as well as to the health of visitors and guardians due to spore diffusion. The research employed genomic DNA extraction from fungal cultures, followed by PCR amplification and sequencing of ribosomal DNA (ITS) and β-tubulin gene regions, with sequences deposited in the EMBL database. This detailed characterization aims to inform future environmentally friendly restoration efforts.

Present status and countermeasure of the Domestic Cat predation on endemic birds in Yambaru area of the northern part of Okinawa Island

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2020 — WHEC4A23F6897

Domestic cats (Felis catus) pose a significant threat to endemic bird species in the Yambaru region of northern Okinawa Island, including the flightless Yambaru rail (Gallirallus okinawae). A local ordinance requiring microchip registration for pet cats has proven effective in distinguishing between domestic and feral cats, facilitating targeted feral cat management. This study highlights the critical role of regional collaboration in mitigating predation risks to vulnerable endemic species, emphasizing the need for island-wide efforts to sustain conservation outcomes.

Preservation and management of a World Heritage site Tajima Yahei Sericulture Farm and its buffer zone

Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites — 2020 — WHE5138926973

Tajima Yahei Sericulture Farm, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites, represents a pivotal advancement in sericulture farmhouse design with a focus on ventilation. The study reveals that Yahei's experiments led to the development of the 'seiryō-iku' theory, which revolutionized silkworm breeding practices and shaped sericulture architecture. This research examines the adaptation of former farmhouses and landscapes while addressing challenges in preserving this cultural heritage. It proposes future directions for the revitalization of Tajima Yahei Sericulture Farm and its buffer zone, emphasizing the need to balance industrial legacy with environmental sustainability.

Preservation of Company Towns in Mexico

Historic Centre of Puebla — 2020 — WHE9D657F9B0F

Company towns in Mexico, such as La Constancia Mexicana in Puebla, face significant preservation challenges due to urban expansion and modern development. These historic sites, which once housed entire communities with work, housing, and stores, are at risk of being lost or altered by new social housing projects and private developments. The study highlights the need for cultural sustainability, suggesting that converting historic buildings into museums or interpretive centers can raise historical awareness and contribute to the preservation of architectural heritage. By analyzing the taxonomic classification of these towns' architectural characteristics, researchers aim to advance sustainable city planning and develop cultural identity while recognizing significant industrial heritage facts.

Preservation of Unique Natural Territories of the North of Russia: from the History of the Creation of the Natural Heritage Site “The Virgin Forests of the Komi Republic”

Virgin Komi Forests — 2020 — WHE2C5C778E90

The Virgin Komi Forests, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site spanning the Pechora-Ilych Reserve and Yugyd Va National Park, represent one of Europe's last expanses of primary forests. This study reveals how Soviet-era scientific efforts, driven by industrial development pressures, successfully preserved over 200 natural monuments across the Komi Republic between the 1940s and 1980s. Leveraging archival sources, it highlights the pivotal role of USSR Academy of Sciences researchers in balancing conservation with resource management, culminating in the establishment of Yugyd Va National Park as a landmark scientific achievement.

Preservation, conservation and restoration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Delhi and Agra

Red Fort Complex — 2020 — WHE2BC3993D3D

A long-standing tradition of preservation and restoration has successfully mitigated the degradation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Delhi and Agra, including the Red Fort Complex. These monuments, managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), have faced deterioration due to factors such as political shifts, vandalism, natural wear, urbanization, and industrial encroachment. The ASI's restoration efforts, ongoing since the early 20th century, have achieved significant success in reviving original components across multiple sites, including Humayun’s Tomb Complex, Red Fort Complex, Taj Mahal, and Agra Fort Complex. Phased restoration strategies have ensured satisfactory conservation outcomes, demonstrating effective long-term preservation practices.

Preserving the Outstanding

Tongariro National Park — 2020 — WHE577736DA7E

Tongariro National Park, home to the iconic Mt Ruapehu, faces growing pressures from increased tourism and climate change, threatening its sustainability. While ski fields like Whakapapa operate seasonally, relying on unreliable snow conditions, the park's potential for year-round activities remains underutilized. A key insight is that landscape planning can mitigate environmental damage caused by unmarked trails and overuse while enhancing visitor experiences. The study proposes sustainable, accessible pathways that immerse users in the landscape, reducing erosion and ecological harm. By diversifying activities beyond skiing and promoting responsible tourism, this approach aims to preserve Mt Ruapehu's outstanding natural value for future generations.

Prevalence and antimicrobial-resistance profiles of Salmonella spp. isolated from green anoles (Anolis carolinensis) collected on the Haha-jima of the Ogasawara archipelago, Japan

Ogasawara Islands — 2020 — WHE88571AC5FB

A study on Haha-jima, part of Japan's Ogasawara Islands, reveals that 30.4% of green anoles (Anolis carolinensis), an invasive species, tested positive for Salmonella enterica in their large intestines. Notably, 37.5% of these Salmonella strains exhibited resistance to oxytetracycline, a commonly used antimicrobial agent. This suggests that green anoles may contribute to the transmission of Salmonella on the island, posing potential risks to both public and ecological health. The research analyzed samples collected between 2009 and 2010, assessing resistance against 12 antimicrobial agents.

Prevalence of Flavescence Dorée Phytoplasma-Infected Scaphoideus titanus in Different Vineyard Agroecosystems of Northwestern Italy

Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato — 2020 — WHEF4AF979E0D

Research reveals that the prevalence of Flavescence dorée (FD) phytoplasma-infected Scaphoideus titanus, a key vector in vineyard ecosystems, is significantly higher outside cultivated vineyards (up to 48%) compared to inside them (up to 34%). The study, conducted across seven diverse sites in Piedmont, Italy, also found that the abundance of these vectors decreases sharply from late July onwards, particularly within vineyard boundaries. Analyzing yellow sticky trap collections over two months in 2015, scientists correlated vector population levels, infection rates, and disease prevalence in both cultivated and wild Vitis plants with landscape features. The findings suggest that wild compartments play a critical role in the epidemiology of FD, with infection rates increasing throughout the season in both environments.

Prevalence of serum antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in free-ranging cats on Tokunoshima Island, Japan

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2020 — WHEE7C488481E

A study on Tokunoshima Island, Japan, reveals a high prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among free-ranging cats, with 47.2% testing positive for antibodies against the parasite. The research, conducted using serum samples from 125 cats, found significantly higher seropositivity rates (57.4%) in cats weighing over 2.0 kg compared to smaller cats (12.5%). Additionally, infected cats were detected across 17 of 23 settlements on the island, indicating widespread distribution. This is the first study to document T. gondii prevalence in free-ranging cats on Tokunoshima Island, providing critical data for preventing transmission among animals and humans.

Prevention of SARS-COV-2 coronavirus spread at the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum in Poland. The most visited Memorial site in the world during the COVID-19 pandemic

Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945) — 2020 — WHE36B40F279A

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum (A-BSM) implemented targeted measures to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission among employees and visitors. Despite being one of the world's most visited memorial sites, no COVID-19 cases were reported among staff for over 21 days after closing to visitors. The museum established an Expert Team that identified high-risk employee groups and locations, provided personal protective equipment (PPE), and installed devices to maintain microbiological cleanliness. Visitors were educated on precautions and offered disinfection points, while attendance was reduced. Procedures developed for employees remained effective post-reopening, demonstrating a scalable model for pandemic management in heritage institutions.

Preventive Seismic Protection Technologies to Museum Collections: Quanzhou Museum of China Case Study

Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China — 2020 — WHE7894EE1A7E

A successful long-term mechanism for seismic protection of museum collections has been demonstrated at Quanzhou Museum. The study introduces innovative preventive technologies that effectively safeguard cultural artifacts during earthquakes, including advanced seismic design methods and performance-verified anti-seismic products for showcases. By implementing a comprehensive seismic monitoring system, the research ensures the stability and preservation of museum collections in Fujian, China. This case study highlights the practical application of these technologies, offering a scalable model for earthquake-resistant conservation in heritage sites worldwide.

Primate life history, social dynamics, ecology, and conservation: Contributions from long‐term research in Área de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Area de Conservación Guanacaste — 2020 — WHEEF561846E0

Long-term primate research in Sector Santa Rosa, Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), Costa Rica, reveals critical insights into the life history, social dynamics, and ecology of white-faced capuchins, Geoffroy's spider monkeys, and mantled howler monkeys. This study, one of the longest continuous primate studies globally, demonstrates that decades-long monitoring is essential for understanding long-lived species' reproductive success, familial relationships, behavioral repertoires, and dietary patterns. The research highlights significant inter- and intra-annual variations in forest productivity, providing a unique lens to study ecological and social interactions. Notably, this longitudinal approach has directly contributed to the conservation of the critically endangered dry forest biome, supporting education, community initiatives, and forest restoration efforts.

Primera condena de la Corte Penal Internacional por destrucción de patrimonio histórico en Tombuctú: el caso Al Mahdi = The first sentence delivered by the International Criminal Court for destruction of cultural heritage in Timbuktu: the Al Mahdi case

Timbuktu — 2020 — WHE6D575C5F91

The first conviction by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the destruction of cultural heritage, delivered against Ahmad Al Faqi Al Mahdi, marks a landmark in international law. This case, stemming from the conflict in Mali, highlights the ICC's role in addressing war crimes targeting historical sites, such as Timbuktu's manuscripts and shrines. The study examines the legal proceedings, from the referral by Mali's Ministry of Justice to the reparations phase, emphasizing the innovative approach to categorizing victims and assessing damages. This precedent sets a significant standard for future cases involving the destruction of cultural heritage, underscoring the global importance of protecting intangible and tangible historical assets.

Primula sunhangii (Primulaceae): a new species from Hubei, Central China

Hubei Shennongjia — 2020 — WHEF3C07CA064

A new species of primrose, Primula sunhangii, has been identified from the Shennongjia Forestry District in Hubei Province, Central China. This discovery was supported by both morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, which revealed its close relationship with Primula involucrata Wall. ex Duby while distinguishing it through unique traits such as glabrous sepals, short petiole, cylindrical calyx, and capsule. The study utilized genetic data from nuclear and cpDNA genes to validate the species' distinctiveness, providing a significant contribution to the understanding of primrose diversity in the region.

Prioritizing infill structure indicators in a historical context: in terms of economic sustainability- the vicinity zone of Tabriz historic bazaar

Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex — 2020 — WHEC95634F59E

A key insight from this study is that the type of materials used ranks as the most critical factor for economically sustainable infill structures in historical contexts, particularly around UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex. This finding was derived through a structured analysis involving expert questionnaires and interviews, processed using Expert Choice software. The research also highlights the significance of climate compatibility and cultural land-use suitability, providing a prioritized guideline of 25 indicators to aid designers in balancing economic sustainability with historical integrity. While the findings are tailored to Tabriz's conditions, the methodology offers a replicable approach for similar contexts.

Prirodna obilježja Svilaje s pregledom istraživanja flore i vegetacije

Zagori Cultural Landscape — 2020 — WHEB1EAF70234

Svilaja, a mountain in Dalmatian Zagora, boasts an exceptionally rich flora, including numerous endemic, endangered, and protected species. Among its notable plant life are Arenaria orbicularis, Astragalus monspessulanus ssp. illyricus, and various orchids such as Coeloglossum viride and Ophrys dinarica. Despite extensive field research since 2013 aimed at cataloging the region's vascular flora, precise counts remain challenging due to variations in study boundaries and imprecise locality data. The study highlights significant changes in vegetation driven by depopulation, reduced traditional agriculture, and frequent wildfires, underscoring the urgency for systematic flora investigations.